Mae Sai, Chiang Rai—In the throes of rising waters, police officers valiantly rescued a local resident from his submerged home on Thursday, as the relentless floods continued to devastate the region. The Royal Thai Police captured the heart-wrenching moment, painting a stark picture of the ongoing crisis.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, reacting swiftly to the unfolding catastrophe, convened an urgent meeting of cabinet ministers shortly after delivering the government’s policy statement in parliament. Her marching orders were clear: expedite relief measures for those tormented by the floods, with a laser focus on the Northern provinces, especially Chiang Rai.
During the emergency session, Ms. Paetongtarn instructed the Interior Ministry, the Defence Ministry, and the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry to spearhead the evacuation of both people and livestock. Furthermore, the Interior and Defence Ministries were tasked, alongside the Public Health Ministry, with providing care at evacuation centers, ensuring medical supplies were available to those in need. Simultaneously, the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry was to secure food supplies for livestock.
In an orchestrated effort to manage the chaos and safeguard properties, the Interior Ministry, Defence Ministry, and Royal Thai Police joined forces. Their mission: to protect locals’ homes and belongings as the floodwaters surged. Once the deluge subsides, agencies would assess the extensive damage to infrastructure and utilities, address residents’ complaints, and undertake the Herculean task of repairing homes and structures.
Moreover, the Interior Ministry and the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry would collaborate on fortifying flood embankments and enhancing drainage systems. They also enlisted the Department of Mineral Resources to accelerate work on early-warning systems for high-risk areas.
Environmental agencies, not to be left out, were charged with continuously monitoring rainfall and water levels. Their crucial role involved assessing the situation in real time and ensuring seamless communication with other agencies to keep everyone alert and prepared.
Local authorities were also mobilized to educate residents on safety protocols during floods and guide them on how to access government assistance and prepare for evacuations.
Ms. Paetongtarn didn’t stop there. She directed the Interior Ministry, the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry, and the Office of the National Water Resources to devise long-term solutions for chronic flooding issues. Temporary shelters and kitchens were required to be operational punctually, ensuring that evacuees received food and basic necessities.
Following the meeting, the Prime Minister assured the nation that she was receiving constant updates on the particularly severe flooding in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. “The government is not indifferent. Even as we declared our policy, cabinet ministers were already mobilizing to assist those affected. We must unite to alleviate the hardships of our people swiftly,” she emphasized.
Addressing the afflicted in the North, especially Chiang Rai, she offered heartfelt empathy. “Once the flood situation stabilizes, we will ensure victims receive compensation. Moreover, we will enhance early warning systems to better prepare for future events,” she added.
Ms. Paetongtarn announced plans to personally visit the flood-stricken areas in Chiang Rai the following Friday, imploring local authorities to focus on relief operations rather than her arrival. “No formal welcomes are needed. Just point me in the right direction—our priority is to help those affected,” she stressed.
The government, she explained, was ready to release funds from the central budget’s emergency reserves to aid flood victims. She invited the public to join in the relief efforts, offering a clear avenue for donations through the Office of the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund.
The gravity of the situation was underscored by Sutthipong Juljarern, the permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry, who noted that Mae Sai district in Chiang Rai was enduring its worst flooding in 80 years. The collective call to action is clear: every measure must be taken, every effort exerted, to weather this storm and emerge stronger.
Why is the government always so slow to react to these crises? People are suffering!
Come on, they are doing their best. You can’t just snap your fingers and make the water disappear.
But we knew the floods were coming. They should have been more prepared.
Sam, disasters are unpredictable. They are prioritizing human lives which is the most important thing.
Paetongtarn Shinawatra is doing an incredible job! Her swift action will save lives.
I agree! It’s refreshing to see a leader genuinely care about the people.
Yeah right! Politicians are all the same, only in it for the photo ops.
That’s a bit harsh. At least give her credit for her immediate response.
Actions speak louder than words. Let’s see what happens next.
These floods are a clear indicator of climate change. When will we start taking it seriously?
Agreed! The government should invest more in sustainable solutions.
Climate change? This has been happening for centuries. Overreaction much?
Eddie, science backs it. We need to be proactive, not dismissive.
Why isn’t the international community helping? Thailand needs more support.
Thailand must prioritize its resources first. The world has its own issues.
Suzanne, global cooperation is essential, especially for such crises.
Sick of reading about natural disasters. It’s always bad news everywhere.
The Thai police and military deserve a medal for their bravery.
Absolutely! They risk their lives every day for the public.
Maybe, but don’t forget they also enforce unjust laws sometimes.
GamerX, no system is perfect. In crises like these, their actions save lives.
Paetongtarn visiting the flood areas personally will make a huge difference.
I doubt it. It’s just a PR stunt, if you ask me.
It shows she cares. Sometimes people need to feel supported by their leaders.
True Molly, symbolics matter in tough times.
It’s important to stay connected and offer help, if possible.
Food and shelter are immediate needs, but we also need to think long-term.
Agree Ted. Permanent solutions are vital to prevent recurring losses.
It breaks my heart to see so many people suffer due to the incompetence of authorities!
Emma, they are doing what they can. Managing floods isn’t an easy task.
I just donated to the Disaster Relief Fund. Every bit helps.
That’s awesome, Nancy. I think more people should contribute.
Yes! It’s a way for us to show solidarity.
I think the government could have done a better job at preventive measures.
It’s easy to criticize in hindsight, Rick. They are addressing the issue now.
True, but learning from the past can save lives in the future.
We need to reforest areas and focus on sustainable urban planning to prevent such floods.
I find it hard to believe they didn’t see this flood coming.
The coordination between different ministries is impressive. Hopefully, it will lead to quicker recovery.